BRAND JAPAN Unveils Makabe Stone Zen Light on Kickstarter

BRAND JAPAN Co., Ltd. has unveiled the Makabe Stone Zen Light, a 17 cm granite lantern crafted in Ibaraki, Japan. This traditional stone lantern, which brings a piece of Japanese heritage into everyday spaces, is set to launch on Kickstarter.

Standing 17 cm tall, the Zen Light brings the form of a Japanese stone lantern into everyday living spaces. Its rounded cap, four openings, and natural granite grain give it a sculptural presence on a table or shelf. Each lantern is made by hand, with the process involving inspecting the stone for grain and cracks, marking its dimensions, cutting and shaping, and finishing its surfaces. The workshop, Iwabuchi Sangyo, is led by Hisayuki Iwabuchi, who was recognized as a Contemporary Master Craftsman in 2021 and received Japan's Medal with Yellow Ribbon in 2022.

BRAND JAPAN aims to bring 50 lanterns to backers through the upcoming Kickstarter campaign. The company plans to offer two reward tiers: an Early Reward starting at JPY 47,500 for one stone lantern, limited to 30 rewards, and a Second-tier Reward at JPY 63,300 for one stone lantern, limited to 20 rewards. Both tiers include only the stone lantern and do not include LED lights, other light sources, or styling accessories. Any lighting shown in the photographs is for illustration purposes only.

The lantern measures 155 x 155 x 170 mm (W x D x H) and weighs approximately 2,567 g, though individual pieces may vary. Production, carrier disruptions, and weather conditions may affect the delivery schedule, with backers targeted for completion by December 31, 2027. According to the release, the lantern should be placed on a stable surface and kept dry. The stone body and removable cap should be handled carefully. For outdoor use, it should be kept under cover, protected from rain and splashes.

BRAND JAPAN Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based company that supports the international distribution of Japanese traditional crafts. It works with artisans and craft producers to introduce Japanese craftsmanship to overseas customers through e-commerce, digital storytelling, international logistics, and cross-border sales. The company aims to bring interest in Japanese stonecraft into paid work for the craftspeople who make it.

The release also notes that the lantern comes from a region with a stoneworking tradition reaching back approximately 500 years. Each lantern is unique, with natural variations in grain, pattern, and tone giving each finished piece its own appearance. The lantern is made at Iwabuchi Sangyo, where Hisayuki Iwabuchi was recognized as a Contemporary Master Craftsman in 2021 and received Japan's Medal with Yellow Ribbon in 2022.

The Early Reward tier is limited to 30 lanterns, while the Second-tier Reward is limited to 20. Both tiers include the stone lantern only. The lanterns will be shipped from Japan, with delivery to backers targeted for completion by December 31, 2027. Production, carrier disruptions, and weather conditions may affect the schedule. Kickstarter pledges support a project and do not guarantee delivery.